SALINA -- Kansas State University Salina will open its campus to junior high and high school students on Wednesday, Jan. 15, when it hosts the Kansas Science Olympiad. K-State Salina is one of five regional locations and play will begin at 8 a.m. for the high school level and 9 a.m. for junior high participants.

The nationally recognized competition consists of 23 events focusing on biology, physics, chemistry, earth science, technology and inquiry. From attempting to support 15 kilograms on a bridge constructed with the lightest materials possible to using satellite imagery to solve problems, the students' knowledge and skill level will be tested.

K-State Salina is an ideal venue for the event, especially for those interested in continuing their education in the science and technology field, according to Don Von Bergen, the director of the Salina regional Science Olympiad and head of the arts, sciences and business department at K-State Salina.

"Holding the competition on our campus is a great opportunity for students to look around and network with instructors in top-of-the-nation programs, and they are exposed to new ideas everywhere," he said.

Von Bergen actually coached a Science Olympiad team at the high school level for seven years and loves that students can take what they've learned in the classroom and apply it in a friendly competition setting.

"It's where science comes alive," Von Bergen said.

An awards presentation will follow the conclusion of the competition. First-, second- and third-place individuals will receive a medal, while first-, second- and third-place teams will get a trophy. Winners in each event are eligible for the state competition in April.

Many of the events are open to the public and attendance is encouraged. Parking is available in the lots south of the College Center. A schedule of events and a campus map are available at http://www.salina.k-state.edu/scienceolympiad/.

Volunteers are still needed and can contact Von Bergen at 785-826-2696 or dvb@k-state.edu.